Do I Have ADHD? Common Questions About Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps

ADHD and anxiety can look very similar, especially when difficulties with focus, restlessness, or feeling overwhelmed are present. In some cases, anxiety develops as a response to untreated ADHD—particularly when there are ongoing struggles with organization, time management, or meeting expectations.

A careful evaluation looks at patterns over time, including when symptoms started, how they show up across settings, and whether attention difficulties are primary or secondary to anxiety.

→ Learn more about ADHD evaluation and treatment for adults

ADHD in women is often overlooked because it may not present as hyperactivity. Instead, it can show up as chronic overwhelm, difficulty managing multiple responsibilities, emotional sensitivity, or feeling consistently behind despite strong effort.

Many women develop coping strategies that mask symptoms, which can delay diagnosis until adulthood—often when demands increase or existing systems stop working.

→ Learn more about ADHD in women and late-identified ADHD

In children, ADHD may appear as difficulty sustaining attention, impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, or challenges with following through on tasks. Some children may be more visibly active, while others may seem distracted, forgetful, or easily overwhelmed.

These patterns can impact school performance, behavior, and self-confidence, particularly if they are misunderstood as lack of effort.

Your child may be wonderful, intelligent, and trying very hard — they may just need some extra support to feel more confident, successful, and understood.

→ Learn more about ADHD evaluations for children and adolescents

If symptoms are persistent, affecting daily functioning, or causing frustration at home, school, or work, it may be helpful to seek a professional evaluation. Many individuals wait years before getting clarity, often attributing their experiences to stress, anxiety, or personality traits.

A comprehensive evaluation can help identify what’s contributing to these challenges and guide appropriate next steps.

→ Schedule an introductory call

Medications are not always needed. Treatment is collaborative and personalized. When appropriate, we’ll consider conservative options such as lifestyle changes, behavioral strategies, supplements, and therapy.

We can discuss the risks and benefits of different medication classes or supplements that might be helpful, so you feel supported to make an informed decision.

Frances is a private-pay practice so treatment can remain individualized, clinically thoughtful, and focused on your needs — not dictated by insurance limitations, rushed visit structures, or administrative barriers.

Payment is made at the time of service.

For those who wish to use insurance, a Superbill or statement of services can be provided upon request so clients who have out-of- network benefits may seek potential reimbursement from their insurance plan. Clients should verify their out-of-network benefits with their insurance provider.

Fee information and payment options are reviewed before scheduling, and patients are provided with a good-faith estimate in accordance with practice policy to avoid unexpected costs.

This is a private pay practice, which allows for more time, flexibility, and a personalized approach to care without the limitations often required by insurance.

After your visit, you will receive a superbill, which is an itemized receipt that you can submit to your insurance provider for possible out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your benefits.

Reimbursement depends on your specific out-of-network benefits. Many plans offer partial reimbursement, and you can contact your insurance provider directly to learn more about your coverage.

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Select evening and weekend appointments available for busy parents and professionals.